FF has 'grave concerns' over special tax rates for returning Irish

It has been reported that the Government is considering a special reduced tax rate to a range of graduates and entrepreneurs living abroad in a bid to lure them back to work in Ireland.

The proposal would see those with in-demand skills pay a 30% tax rate for a set period of time.

Speaking ahead of a Fianna Fáil private members debate on pharmacy fees in the Dáil this evening, Dara Calleary (pictured) said he would not be in favour of introducing different tax rates for those returning home and those who remained in Ireland.

"I would have concerns about it personally, it hasn't been discussed within the party," he said.

"Yes we do need to bring people back we need to bring very high skilled people back, but we need other ways of bringing them back other than splitting up our tax system for people who might be doing the same job.

"I would have gave concerns about it but we do need to see the detail. We do need to bring highly skilled people back but the best way to do that is a fair system for everybody."

Mr Calleary said his party would be waiting to see the September returns before finalising their budget submission.

"We will want some of our proposals included.

"We are going to approach this in a very responsible fashion but in a manner that delivers fairness.

"If we could achieve that it would be the first time in five years that a budget would be fair," he said.